An Official Field Trip of Southern Appalachian Mineral Society - Asheville, N.C. (HOST)

9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Saturday, November 5, 2005
Nantahala Talc and Limestone Quarry
Hewitt, North Carolina

WHERE: Nantahala Talc and Limestone Quarry, Hewitt, North Carolina (in the beautiful Nantahala gorge).

WHAT: Banded pink, gray and yellow marble, calcite, dolomite, pyrite, travertine and talc.

WHEN: November 5, 2005

COLLECTING HOURS: Participants must arrive at 9:30 A.M. to check-in, sign a release form, and receive a brief safety briefing. The dig will last until 5:00 P.M. There is no fee for this dig.  If children come, they MUST be in CLOSE proximity to their parent(s) at all times. All young people under 18 must be with an adult/parent at all times. This is a working quarry with high unstable walls so everyone must stay away from the walls.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS: Hard hats and safety glasses are required. It is also recommended that you wear sturdy shoes, gloves, and appropriate outer clothing. The average daily high temperature for November 5th is 64Fh, but the day will most likely start out in the mid-40s. Collecting is possible rain or shine.

WHAT TO BRING: Bring buckets and containers, rock and crack hammers, picks, sledge hammers, and flat and pointed chisels. We will drive into the large quarry and park on a mid-level bench. Bring a lunch and water and be prepared to do your "duty" in the woods as there are no nearby facilities. It will be possible to drive about ¼ mile to the quarry office for "relief", if necessary.

WHERE TO STAY: Towns within 30 miles from the meeting spot with motels, campgrounds and other facilities: Andrews; Bryson City; Cherokee; Robbinsville; and Murphy.

FOR ONLINE INFORMATION AND PICTURES OF THE QUARRY:
www.mcrocks.com/page11.html
www.mcrocks.com/images/FieldTripReportMikeStreeterOctober%2025,%202003.html
www.mcrocks.com/images/FieldTripReportEverettHarrington-October2003.html